Movie Review: Legend (+trailer)

Tom Hardy depicts both Ronnie and Reggie Kray.

This could be Tom Hardy's breakthrough year.

His versatility can't be questioned as after fronting Mad Max: Fury Road, he takes on the roles of both Reg and Ron Kray in this retelling of the story of their rise from East London obscurity to be the darlings of 1960s London society.

Of course, it's an unsavoury story of a criminal empire built on intimidation, protection rackets and eliminating the opposition. Rags to riches, yes; a feel-good story, no.

Legend is as much a tale of blood being thicker than water as it is about the notorious gangster twins' rise. Hardy's Reg, the suave charmer, ruthless businessman and very much the brother who has his eye on the prize, is a magnificent counterpoint to his portrayal of the increasingly psychotic Ron that, at times, borders on caricature.

As the story unfolds, it is easy to forget Reg and Ron are played by the one actor.

It's also difficult to understand how Reg continued to tolerate his brother's destructive behaviour. But it's about family.

As they did, no doubt, in real life, the characters that surround Hardy's twins are only ever going to have supporting roles.

While this is an R18 movie, containing graphic scenes and bad language, neither dominate.

There is, of course, no happy ending but, whether or not you know the Krays' story, there is plenty to recommend this stylish piece of cinema.

MOVIE: LEGEND
R18, 131 min